Shure

Shure SM57-LC Instrument Dynamic Microphone Cardioid

4.8 (831 reviews)

Capture Instruments with Clarity and Precision The Shure SM57-LC Instrument Dynamic Microphone delivers exceptional sound reproduction for both amplified and acoustic instruments. Its cardioid polar pattern minimizes background noise, while its durable construction ensures reliability under heavy...

$109.00*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

Capture Instruments with Clarity and Precision

The Shure SM57-LC Instrument Dynamic Microphone delivers exceptional sound reproduction for both amplified and acoustic instruments. Its cardioid polar pattern minimizes background noise, while its durable construction ensures reliability under heavy use. The pneumatic shock mount reduces handling noise, providing a clean, professional sound.

Specifications:

  • Microphone Type: Dynamic
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Frequency Response: Contoured for instrumental reproduction and vocal pickup
  • Shock Mount: Pneumatic shock mount system
  • Durability: Extremely durable construction
  • Item Weight: 0.43 Kilograms (15.1 ounces)
  • Microphone Form Factor: Handheld
  • Item Dimensions L x W x H: 10.3 x 4.9 x 3.4 inches
  • Power Source: Corded Electric
  • Material: Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel, Polycarbonate
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 78 dB
  • Number of Channels: 1
  • Color: Dark gray
  • Connectivity Technology: XLR
  • Connector Type: XLR
  • Special Feature: Portable
  • Compatible Devices: Amplifier, Instrument, Recording Studio
  • Included Components: amplifier

Key Features

Consumer Alert: Most users do not need a license to operate this wireless microphone system. Nevertheless, operating this microphone system without a license is subject to certain restrictions: the system may not cause harmful interference; it must operate at a low power level (not in excess of 50 milliwatts); and it has no protection from interference received from any other device.

Specifications

Model
SM57-LC
Microphone Type
Dynamic
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Application
Instrument

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • The Shure SM57-LC is widely recognized as an industry-standard dynamic microphone, known for its reliable performance.
  • Its cardioid pickup pattern effectively isolates the main sound source while minimizing background noise.
  • Designed specifically for instruments, it excels at capturing clear and distinct audio from amplifiers, drums, and wind instruments.
  • Known for its rugged construction, the SM57-LC is built to withstand the rigors of studio and live environments.
  • The dynamic microphone type generally offers excellent durability and can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.

👎 Cons

  • The Shure SM57-LC is a wired microphone, which may limit mobility compared to wireless systems.
  • As a dynamic microphone, it typically has lower sensitivity compared to condenser microphones, requiring more gain from a preamp.
  • The cardioid pattern, while great for isolation, might not be ideal for capturing ambient room sounds or multiple sources broadly.
  • It is primarily designed for instruments, making it less versatile for vocal applications where a dedicated vocal microphone might be preferred.
  • The product feature list is minimal, not detailing frequency response or impedance, which advanced users might seek.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Shure SM57-LC is a dynamic instrument microphone, specifically designed for capturing audio from instruments in both studio and live performance settings.
Most users do not need a license to operate this microphone system; however, it must operate at a low power level and has no protection from interference.
This microphone features a cardioid pickup pattern, which is effective at isolating the main sound source and reducing the capture of unwanted background noise.
While it is primarily designed for instruments, its cardioid pattern makes it suitable for some vocal applications, though specialized vocal microphones might offer different characteristics.
Yes, the Shure SM57-LC is renowned for its robust construction, making it a very durable and reliable choice for demanding professional environments.